Local Projects, Local Jobs provides upgrades to three sports clubs in City of Stirling Investment in grassroots sport creates jobs and strengthens communities Three Balcatta and Osborne Park sports clubs will get revitalised clubrooms to the value of $85,000 thanks to the McGowan Government's Local Projects, Local Jobs initiative. The Osborne Park Bowling Club has secured $50,000 to spruce up their clubrooms, Balcatta Football Club will receive $25,000 for club improvements and Osborne Park Cricket Club will get upgrades and new equipment to the value of $10,000. Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray today joined Balcatta MLA David Michael at Balcatta Football Club to announce the community funding, which will strengthen grassroots sport in the City of Stirling. Mr Michael led the local campaign for the upgrades, including $85,000 in funding for the projects as part of his commitments at the 2017 State Election. The McGowan Government's Local Projects, Local Jobs initiative will fund more than 200 community sport and recreation projects across the State, creating jobs and building stronger and healthier communities. Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray "Local Projects, Local Jobs not only helps grassroots sports clubs with upgrades to their facilities, it provides benefits to local small businesses and jobs in the process. "David's advocacy means his local bowling, soccer and cricket clubs will be able to offer much more to attract new members and keep club stalwarts coming back. It is that membership which keeps clubs thriving. "Strong local clubs not only contribute to healthier, more active communities, they also help keep communities connected." Comments attributed to Balcatta MLA David Michael "I ran for Parliament because I saw that our area was missing out and was determined to change that. "I am really pleased to have been able to secure this funding for local community-run organisations which give so much to our area." Minister's office - 6552 6400

A world-class eco retreat is on its way to Rottnest Island Island's first glamping resort Major milestone in a century of Rottnest Island tourism Glamorous camping, otherwise known as 'glamping', accommodation will be available at Rottnest Island from the summer of 2018-19, after plans to build a new beachfront eco-resort at the popular holiday destination were conditionally approved. The 2.8 hectare development, known as Pinky Beach Eco Retreat and Beach Club, will be an ecologically sensitive, world-class eco retreat built as part of the Rottnest Island Authority's vision for revitalising the Island's accommodation offerings. The Eco Retreat will provide different levels of accommodation to suit various budgets, available from about $100 up to $350 per night. The accommodation will be supported by a Beach Club comprising of a licenced bar, cafe, restaurant and function area with views over the ocean to Perth. Access to Pinky Beach will also be improved with the development, with two extra boardwalks and new access to The Basin, linking to the Wadjemup Bidi walk trail. Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Paul Papalia "This is a significant milestone for Rottnest Island and is the first major development in over 30 years. "Catering for tourists and families, the resort will comprise 86 eco accommodation tents with ensuites, as well as a Beach Club comprising of a licenced bar, cafe, restaurant and function area with views over the ocean. "This development will transform the area and establish a whole new visitor experience at Rottnest. "Anyone who has seen Rottnest Island's beaches will understand the value for visitors to be able to sit back, relax and take in the breathtaking views and setting sun." Minister's office - 6552 5600

WA local beats out Eastern States companies in competitive tender process Gage Roads injects $22 million a year into the WA economy, supporting hundreds of local businesses Fans to enjoy local product at Perth Stadium Western Australia's own Gage Roads Brewing Co. has secured the beer and cider supply contract for Perth Stadium. The Palmyra-based company beat out competition from the Eastern States to secure the five-year deal with Perth Stadium - complementing the $22 million, the company already injects into hundreds of WA businesses each year. The deal will support the existing Gage Roads Brewing Co. southern suburbs workforce of 85 employees and as well as a range of other WA companies, including farmers, manufacturers, logistics providers and the hospitality industry. Gage Roads Brewing Co. is the biggest buyer of Western Australian grown malted barley, the majority of which is grown in the Wheatbelt enabling 11 million litres of beer and cider to be produced each year. The contract award means Western Australians will be able to enjoy beer and cider brewed in their own backyard when enjoying sporting events and concerts at the $1.46 billion Perth Stadium. The appointment by Stadium Operator, VenuesLive followed a competitive tender process and the McGowan Government hopes more jobs will be created as part of other contracts for work at the new stadium. Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan "When Western Australian companies win, the whole State benefits. "Gage Roads is a true Western Australian success story - going from local start-up to become one of the country's biggest independent brewers. "Gage Roads supports WA farmers, manufacturers, the hospitality industry and a range of other sectors - meaning this contract win will create jobs throughout the economy." Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray "Western Australians will have the opportunity to enjoy beer and cider brewed in their own backyard while enjoying sporting events and concerts at Perth Stadium. "Gage Roads will increase their production markedly to keep up with the new demand generated by the Perth Stadium contract - and that is good news for the whole State. "The State Government is committed to buying local wherever possible, and we are proud that quality local beer and cider will be front and centre at Perth Stadium." Premier's office - 6552 5000 Sport and Recreation Minister's office - 6552 6400

Kimberley Agricultural Investment urged to sign lease documents to enable the next phase of its agricultural expansion in the Ord The State Government has invested more than $300 million in Ord Stage 2 and welcomes international investment Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan has urged Kimberley Agricultural Investment (KAI) to sign lease documentation provided by the State Government to get Ord expansion plans underway. KAI was last week provided with a final form of the various lease documents for the next phase of its agricultural expansion. The State has been working with KAI to finalise the lease since 2015. Once signed, the State Government has undertaken to move immediately to issue land titles to enable KAI's proposed grain grading and processing plant to proceed as quickly as possible. Comments attributed to Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan "KAI's investment has transformed the Ord but it is also true that in excess of $300 million of taxpayer money has been invested in Stage 2 and the public interest needs to be protected. "After several years of negotiation and considerable compromise by the State Government, it is time for KAI to sign the lease, move on and let this project enter its next phase. "We create a positive environment for international investment in Western Australia but we do require that agreements entered into around that investment are honoured. "We look forward to working with KAI and believe it is in everyone's interest for years of negotiation to now be brought to a conclusion." Minister's office - 6552 6200

Exhibit celebrates 100 years of women in policing Police Minister Michelle Roberts is encouraging show-goers to get along to the Police Exhibition at this year's Perth Royal Show. This year's theme celebrates the important history of women in the WA Police Force. Visitors will be invited to take a step back in time to 1917 - the year when the two very first female police officers were appointed. Other activities and opportunities for visitors include A photo opportunity on a police motorbike and/or in a police car; Daily Constable Care shows at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm; and a Kids Zone colouring-in competition including daily prize packs to be won. The WA Police Force has been involved in exhibiting at the Perth Royal Show since 1996. The exhibition aims to inform visitors of police programs and initiatives and promote the agency as an employer which offers rewarding career opportunities. Last year about 58,000 people attended the Police Exhibition across the eight days. The Police Exhibition will be open from 9am-7pm each day of the show. Comments attributed to Police Minister Michelle Roberts "The Police Exhibition has long been a show favourite for people of all ages. "For our police, it's a fantastic opportunity to showcase the good work they do every day in the community. "For visitors, it's a great insight into the world of policing and a chance to meet and interact with our serving police officers. "In this the 100th year of women in policing, I want to pay tribute to and acknowledge the achievements of our female police officers and staff." Minister's office - 6552 6900

Final audited outcomes for 2016-17 slightly better than estimated in recent Budget Outcomes highlight the need for the Government's Budget repair measures Treasurer Ben Wyatt today released the 2016-17 Annual Report on State Finances. The Annual Report on State Finances is a statutory reporting requirement of the Government Financial Responsibility Act 2000 and details the audited financial outcomes for 2016-17. The Annual Report on State Finances shows that for 2016-17 The general government sector recorded an operating deficit of $2.5 billion, $565 million lower than the $3 billion deficit estimated in the 2017-18 Budget; General government revenue grew by a modest 1.6 per cent, following two consecutive years of declining revenue; General government recurrent expenditure increased by 3.1 per cent, with salaries expenditure increasing by just two per cent; The State's Asset Investment Program totalled $5.1 billion, consistent with the 2017-18 Budget estimate and the $5.2 billion infrastructure spend in 2015-16; and Total public sector net debt stood at $32 billion at June 30, 2017, $536 million lower than the estimated outturn in the 2017-18 Budget. This is an increase of $4.6 billion on the level of net debt at June 30, 2016, with all of this attributable to the general government sector. The Annual Report on State Finances can be downloaded from the Department of Treasury's website at http//www.treasury.wa.gov.au Comments attributed to Treasurer Ben Wyatt "These outcomes are consistent with the run of poor financial results delivered by the previous government. "Over two terms, the Liberal National Government oversaw an increase in total public sector net debt from $3.6 billion at June 30, 2008 to $32 billion at June 30, 2017 - an increase of nearly 800 per cent. "In the face of these figures, I would again call on the Liberal Party to take responsibility for its time in government, and support our efforts to get the State's finances back on track." Treasurer's office - 6552 5900

Southern MTB 2017 has grown to five events and caters for all ages and abilities McGowan Government provides $10,000 funding to help make event possible Mountain bike riders and spectators will enjoy the best action on two wheels as the Southern MTB 2017 kicks off in and around picturesque Albany today. Starting as the Albany Urban Downhill in 2013, the Southern MTB 2017 festival now features five events and caters for riders of all ages and abilities. The McGowan Government contributed $10,000 to WestCycle in support of the event through the Country Sport Enrichment Scheme, which supports the delivery of international, national or State events to boost sporting opportunities in the regions. The Southern MTB 2017 offers participants the choice of two race distances in the Southern Peaks event, the Urban Downhill course that will include a new junior course and one for younger riders, the Kids Urban Event. The Jump Comp takes place on Saturday night in the centre of the Albany Town Square Event Village and will showcase a slopestyle multi-feature course, which includes launching off sea containers and other spectacular stunts. The festival runs from Friday through to Sunday. If you are interested in volunteering at the festival, go to http//www.southernmtb.com.au/volunteer Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray "Mountain bike riding continues to go from strength to strength in Western Australia, with Southern MTB attracting competitors and spectators into the beautiful Albany region. "Mountain bike tourism is a growing, job-creating industry with the potential to provide a shot in the arm to country towns across the State - including Albany. "Southern MTB 2017 should be commended for its inclusiveness. An event like this not only increases participation in adults but the Kids Urban Event is a fun, have-a-go race for riders aged five to 12." Minister's office - 6552 6400

Review of a more modern and fair State industrial relations system begins State system covers up to one-third of Western Australian workers The McGowan Government today announced the commencement of its review into the State industrial relations system. Senior Counsel Mark Ritter, a barrister with extensive experience in employment and industrial relations law, has been appointed to undertake the review. Mr Ritter was Acting President of the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission from 2005 to 2009. Forrestfield MLA Stephen Price will assist Mr Ritter SC with the review. The State system has not been comprehensively reviewed and updated since 2002, and the industrial relations and employment environment has changed significantly since then. The aim of the review is to deliver a State industrial relations system that is contemporary, fair and accessible. It will also develop a process to modernise State awards for private sector employers and employees. The review's final report will be completed for the Government's consideration in about four months. Stakeholders will be consulted and given the opportunity to make submissions. For more information, visit https//www.commerce.wa.gov.au/labour-relations Comments attributed to Commerce and Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston "The McGowan Government is pleased to announce the delivery of its election commitment to review the State industrial relations system. "The State system needs to be updated to address the changed employment environment and to meet the needs of its constituents - predominately small business employers and employees, and the public sector. "We are committed to ensuring the State industrial relations system is modernised and the review will provide a blueprint on how best to do this." Minister's office - 6552 6700 Terms of Reference The Ministerial Review of the State industrial relations system is to consider and make recommendations with respect to the following matters. 1. Review the structure of the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission with the objective of achieving a more streamlined and efficient structure. 2. Review the jurisdiction and powers of the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission with the objective of examining the access for public sector employees to the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission on a range of matters for which they are currently excluded. 3. Consider the inclusion of an equal remuneration provision in the Industrial Relations Act 1979 with the objective of facilitating the conduct of equal remuneration cases and other initiatives in the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission. 4. Review the definition of employee in the Industrial Relations Act 1979 and the Minimum Conditions of Employment Act 1993 with the objective of ensuring comprehensive coverage for all employees. 5. Review the minimum conditions of employment in the Minimum Conditions of Employment Act 1993, the Long Service Leave Act 1958 and the Termination, Change and Redundancy General Order of the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission to consider whether (a) the minimum conditions should be updated; and if (b) there should be a process for statutory minimum conditions to be periodically updated by the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission, without the need for legislative change. 6. Devise a process for the updating of State awards for private sector employers and employees, with the objectives of (a) ensuring the scope of awards provide comprehensive coverage to employees; (b) ensuring awards reflect contemporary workplaces and industry, without reducing existing employee entitlements; (c) ensuring awards are written in plain English and are user friendly for both employers and employees; and (d) ensuring that any award updating process is driven by the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission, with appropriate input from the award parties and other relevant stakeholders. 7. Review statutory compliance and enforcement mechanisms with the objectives of (a) ensuring that employees are paid their correct entitlements; (b) providing effective deterrents to non-compliance with all State industrial laws and instruments; and (c) updating industrial inspectors' powers and tools of enforcement to ensure they are able to effectively perform their statutory functions. 8. Consider whether local government employers and employees in Western Australia should be regulated by the State industrial relations system, and if so, how that outcome could be best achieved.

$500,000 for cutting-edge program to promote mental wellbeing for WA workers One in five Western Australians will experience mental health issues in any given year A new partnership between the State Government and The University of Western Australia will see the development of a comprehensive set of mental health support resources for WA workplaces. The Mental Health Commission has partnered with The University of Western Australia's Centre for Transformative Work Design to develop evidence-based activities and resources within the Centre's State-wide Thrive@Work Strategy. The assessment tools, training modules, educational materials and other resources will assist WA workplaces to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, and support employee mental health. The funding will also support the implementation of the Western Australian Workplace Mental Health Standards, a set of voluntary guidelines for organisations seeking to be mentally healthy. The development of the standards has been commissioned by the Mental Health Commission as part of the implementation of the Suicide Prevention 2020 strategy. Comments attributed to Mental Health Minister Roger Cook "Workplaces have the potential to impact on people's mental health both positively and negatively. "This funding will assist the Centre to better support organisations throughout WA address the health and wellbeing of their employees and create thriving workplaces. "With one in five of us experiencing mental health issues in any given year and the many hours we spend at work, it is critical that workplaces know how to create environments that help their employees thrive. "Creating thriving workplaces is good for employees, good for the wider community and can reduce the impact of lost productivity on business." Minister's office - 6552 6500

Jigalong buildings repurposed to provide vital health services A new 10-bed respite centre has officially opened in the remote Aboriginal community of Jigalong, assisting sick, disabled and elderly people from the Martu and Western Desert communities to stay on country and access medical care. The Jirlpimili Ngurra centre (which means Elder's Camp) is the result of an East Pilbara Independence Support (EPIS) project to repurpose an existing pensioner complex to provide respite care at Jigalong - 165 kilometres east of Newman. The pensioner complex was originally built in 2009 with funding of $1.7 million from the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing. The refurbishment began in February this year and was completed in May. EPIS contributed $100,000 to cover the cost of renovations, with an additional $20,000 from the Department of Communities. EPIS, a not-for-profit Commonwealth-funded body, manages and operates the centre. Comments attributed to Housing Minister Peter Tinley "The Jirlpimili Ngurra respite centre will meet a critical community need and enable many elderly Martu people from across the Western Desert communities to stay on country rather than re-locating to urban areas for their health needs. "Through EPIS, the facility is expected to create training and employment opportunities for locals. "The centre provides overnight respite care and a range of daytime services and support in a holistic approach that gives elderly Aboriginal people, the opportunity to access safe, clean accommodation and meals while maintaining their connections with family and friends. "The centre will also enable people to be cared for while their carers take a break." Minister's office - 6552 5300

Woodman Point expansion will increase capacity by 40 million litres a day Up to 200 workers will be employed during the construction phase Up to 200 jobs will be created as work is carried out to upgrade the Woodman Point Wastewater Treatment Plant in Munster. The $158.5 million project will increase the capacity of the wastewater treatment plant by 40 million litres a day, to safely treat 180 million litres of wastewater from homes and businesses located south of the river. The expansion includes the construction of eight concrete sedimentation tanks which will be 50 metres in diameter and six metres high, with the capacity to treat 11 million litres of treated wastewater each. Henderson-based company Civmec and Black and Veatch Australia are working with the Water Corporation on the expansion project, which is expected to be completed by October 2019. To watch a 3D animation of the Woodman Point Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion project and view project progress videos, visit http//www.watercorporation.com.au/woodmanpoint Comments attributed to Water Minister Dave Kelly "The McGowan Labor Government is committed to creating local jobs through local infrastructure projects. "About 200 workers will be employed during the peak of construction and 15 apprentices at Civmec have been gaining valuable experience working on the fabrication of the concrete panels at their Henderson facility. "Woodman Point is the State's largest wastewater treatment plant and it currently treats wastewater for about 680,000 people living south of the Swan River. "This expansion will ensure the plant will continue to have the capacity to treat wastewater as the population grows." Minister's office - 6552 6100

Bill Johnston to travel to Indonesia with a focus on jobs, energy, education and tourism Visit will recommit WA's Sister State relationship with East Java Asian Engagement Minister Bill Johnston departs this weekend for a week-long trip to Indonesia to strengthen our State's relationship with our nearest neighbour. Mr Johnston will travel to the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, as well as the cities of Surabaya and Bandung. The visit will include meetings with government and business, universities, utilities, oil and gas company Pertamina and airline Garuda Indonesia. The Minister will discuss why our State has a competitive advantage in the education, training, and mining and resources sectors. While in Surabaya, he will take part in a ceremony marking the re-signing of our Sister State relationship with East Java. Mr Johnston will also travel to Bandung in West Java, which is a special place for him having spent his final year of high school there as an exchange student. Western Australia's exports to Indonesia were valued at $2.4 billion in 2016-17, up 31 per cent from the year before. Petroleum, wheat and iron ore were the most dominant commodities. Comments attributed to Asian Engagement Minister Bill Johnston "I feel privileged to be the first member of the McGowan Government to travel to Indonesia in an official capacity. "My focus is to capitalise on the rapid population and economic growth in Asia to create more job-boosting opportunities in WA. "Indonesia is a significant export market for goods and services in WA, but there is still untapped potential in our trade and cultural relationship, especially education and tourism. "I also look forward to re-committing to the future of our Sister State relationship with East Java - a longstanding friendship for both parties." Minister's office - 6552 6700

Free meningococcal ACWY vaccine for 15 to 19 year-olds now available at GP clinics State-funded vaccine directed at high-risk teenager group Western Australian teenagers can now receive the free meningococcal ACWY vaccine at their local GP clinic, making it more convenient and readily accessible during school holidays. The vaccination program, which will run in WA schools for three years, provides jabs for 15 to 19 year-olds, the group with the highest risk of carrying meningococcal bacteria and transmitting it to others, including young children. Since the program commenced in Term Two, more than 50,000 WA teenagers have been vaccinated at schools, universities and immunisation clinics. As the second phase of the staged rollout, the Department of Health has shipped vaccines to GP clinics across WA so it is more readily available for those who may not have received it. The vaccine will be available at GP clinics free of charge until the end of 2017. While the vaccine is free, some clinics may charge a consultation fee, so please check costs when making an appointment. In 2018 and 2019, the program will target incoming Year 10 students through a school-based vaccination program. The ACWY vaccine is also available by prescription to all members of the public, however charges would apply. Speak to your GP clinic at the time of booking to confirm charges. To date, there have been 22 cases of meningococcal disease this year in WA, including 17 cases due to strains covered by the ACWY vaccine. Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook "The McGowan Government is committed to ensuring that teenagers aged 15 to 19, who have a high risk of carrying, spreading and contracting meningococcal disease, are provided with a vaccine against this invasive disease. "Although meningococcal disease is uncommon, it can be life-threatening. "I encourage all teenagers to take advantage of this free vaccination program and reduce their risk of contracting or spreading this disease." Minister's office - 6552 6500

Extended retail trading hours approved in Geraldton 12-month trial to begin in the next few weeks The McGowan Government has approved the City of Greater Geraldton's application for a 12-month trial of Perth metropolitan retail trading hours. General retailers will now be able to trade from 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday and public holidays - except Christmas Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day. After the trial, the City of Greater Geraldton is required to provide the Minister for Commerce and Industrial Relations with a comprehensive review of the trial for further consideration. The review will identify the impact of the trial on small businesses, employment, tourism, and the local community. Comments attributed to Commerce and Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston "One of our election commitments was to work closely with the City of Greater Geraldton to maximise cruise ship visits and boost tourism in the region. "We have kept our promise and approved extended retail trading hours, to benefit the local community and tourists. "I have been provided with a wealth of information from stakeholders on this issue and found there is significant support for similar trading hours to Perth in the Geraldton community." Minister's office - 6552 6700

More jobs in the gold sector planned for Kalgoorlie-Boulder area Continuing positive return for investors in WA industry Chamber of Minerals and Energy promoting jobs in the Super Pit Gold price has remained strong at over $1,630 per ounce since the release of the State Budget on September 7 Treasurer Ben Wyatt has welcomed more positive news from the gold sector with reports of more than 600 jobs expected to be created over the next 18 months, as two major gold projects, Dacian's Mount Morgans project and the Gruyere Gold Project go into production in the Goldfields. This continues the strong signs from the ASX, with St Barbara Pty Ltd seeing a six-month high in their share price on September 18 which followed gold explorer Echo Resources' doubling of their share price on September 16. Exploration and drilling works have also continued, with Egan Street Resources announcing on September 14, a heavily oversubscribed $4 million placement to fund further drilling at its Rothsay Gold Project in the Mid-West. The strong gold price has also encouraged private investment in a number of small mining projects, including the Rose Dam Gold Mine which opened just a fortnight ago. The price of gold has remained over $1,630 per ounce since the State Budget on September 7, 2017. Comments attributed to Treasurer Ben Wyatt "It has been so pleasing to hear the positive jobs news coming out of the WA gold industry. "Following the State Budget and the announcement of our plans for a $20 per ounce gold royalty increase, it seems not a day goes by that I don't hear about a new plan to expand, more capital raising and a plan for more jobs. "Today's Kalgoorlie Miner was again awash with good news about Rose Dam while Dacian Gold and Gruyere Gold have projects which should create a further 600 jobs. "Everyone involved should be congratulated and it's always encouraging to see an industry in such robust health." Treasurer's office - 6552 5900

24 outstanding young people named as finalists for the 2017 WA Youth Awards WA Young Person of the Year will be announced on October 12 A 12-year-old from Kallaroo, whose homelessness project has reached nearly 4,000 people in need, is among 24 young Western Australians who are finalists in the 2017 WA Youth Awards. Vincent Pettinicchio was just seven years old when he devised Vincent's Project for the Homeless as a distraction from being bullied. Inspired by seeing people living on the streets of Perth, Vincent began providing them packs of toiletries and comfort items. Vincent now uses his spare time to speak at different parishes, rotary clubs, corporate events and schools to raise awareness about the homeless. He has gained ongoing support from a number of major corporations. The WA Youth Awards showcase the achievements and contributions of young Western Australians aged 12 to 25, as well as organisations that work with and support WA youth. Eight organisations that work with youth are also finalists. One individual category winner will be named WA's Young Person of the Year at the State Theatre Centre on October 12, 2017. Comments attributed to Youth Minister Peter Tinley "The calibre of finalists in this year's WA Youth Awards is truly outstanding. These young people are representative of the diversity of WA's young people and the ways in which they contribute to building vibrant communities. "Many of these young people have overcome extremely challenging situations and exemplify the qualities of resilience, determination and perseverance that our future generations hold. "The WA Youth Awards are a wonderful reminder of the great work undertaken by WA's young people and provide an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and the positive difference they are making in their communities." Minister's office - 6552 5300

Expressions of interest (EOI) now open for the Aboriginal Ranger Program $4 million available in 2017-18 for Aboriginal organisations The McGowan Labor Government is encouraging Aboriginal organisations to apply for funding under the Aboriginal Ranger Program. The State Budget included an investment of $20 million over five years for the program. The program will build on the highly successful work already being undertaken by established Aboriginal ranger groups throughout the State and has been designed to focus on jobs, training and community development initiatives that deliver social, economic and environmental outcomes. Funding will enable the employment and training of Aboriginal rangers to undertake land and sea management, including tourism operations and protection of cultural and biodiversity values across a range of tenures in remote and regional Western Australia. The EOI is open today (September 21) and closes on October 31, 2017. Application forms and guidelines are available from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions website at http//www.dbca.wa.gov.au/aboriginalrangerprogram Comments attributed to Environment Minister Stephen Dawson "The ranger program is great news for the environment and great news for the economic and social resilience of remote and regional Aboriginal communities. "The program has been co-designed with Aboriginal groups and industry, and we are now seeking interest from those who want to participate in the program. "This program will generate more jobs and training for our indigenous youth, provide the opportunity to develop a career in land and sea management and create long-term cultural, conservation and tourism opportunities." Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt "We have included in the State Budget, real initiatives that provide on-ground, positive outcomes for our regional and remote communities to ensure they have the short-term and long-term capacity to provide brighter futures for our young Aboriginal people. "We will continue to work collaboratively with traditional owner groups, Aboriginal corporations and representative bodies to deliver this program quickly and effectively throughout WA." Environment Minister's office - 6552 5800 Aboriginal Affairs Minister's office - 6552 5900

$1.5 million Lotterywest grant for Telethon Kids Institute for Discovery Centre Centre will teach kids about the development of better therapies and lifesaving cures The State Government has provided a $1.5 million Lotterywest grant to the Telethon Kids Institute (TKI) to build a Discovery Centre at the new Perth Children's Hospital. Located at the northern entrance, the Centre will provide an educational environment, away from hospital rooms and clinical environments, where young children, and their families and carers, can learn about the work being carried out by TKI researchers. The Centre's hub will be on the ground level of the new hospital, but there will also be other exhibits around the hospital, and mobile units which can be taken to hospital wards to provide children who can't leave the ward with an interactive experience. The State Government, through Lotterywest, is proud to support the Telethon Kids Institute - one of Australia's premier independent medical research institutes - in this exciting initiative. Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook "The planned Discovery Centre represents an opportunity for many thousands of WA children not only to be distracted from their medical treatment, or that of their siblings, cousins, or friends, to develop an interest in science and health research. "We are also proud that TKI and their new Discovery Centre will share a home at the new hospital, and of the strategic partnership this represents. "When the hospital opens, the QEII Medical Centre will be the largest medical, research and educational facility in Western Australia - and a centre of excellence for health and research. "The co-location of these two iconic institutions will enable researchers from TKI to work alongside some of Western Australia's most innovative and progressive child health clinicians. "As a State Government, we strongly believe in supporting organisations such as TKI and I would like to commend the extraordinary work the Institute does. "I would also like to acknowledge the continuing good work of Lotterywest, which each year supports hundreds of community groups and incorporated associations in initiatives with a public benefit, with grants totalling well over $100 million." Minister's office - 6552 6500

More than 630 Western Australians have taken part in the world-first trial subsidy UWA research found that approved devices deterred great white sharks in nine out of 10 occasions All shark sightings should be reported to the Water Police on 9442 8600 More than 630 Western Australians have now accessed the McGowan Government's world-first trial shark deterrent subsidy and have greater protection in the ocean, according to Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly. The trial subsidy for 1,000 independently verified devices is part of a range of shark hazard mitigation strategies driven by the McGowan Government's focus on science and new technologies to help protect water users. The $200 rebates are available through retail outlets, who sell the approved shark deterrent device. Details on how the scheme works are available via the SharkSmart website at http//www.sharksmart.com.au SharkSmart is also the place to go for families to be informed about alerts, tagged shark detections, reported shark sightings, and safety tips, as families plan school holiday activities. The Government urges all water users to help each other by reporting all shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600. This will ensure that SharkSmart and the Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA) Twitter service can alert the community and that beach managers can close beaches, if necessary. During the school holidays, the SLSWA Perth and South-West helicopters will be patrolling beaches along the coast and also reporting any shark sightings to Water Police as well. Comments attributed to Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly "The McGowan Government is very pleased with the community's response to this world-first trial shark deterrent subsidy. "As the weather warms up over spring, we expect the rate of rebates claimed will accelerate quickly. "The University of Western Australia carried out research into the Shark Shield Freedom 7 device and found it works nine out of 10 times against great white sharks. "Once all 1,000 rebates have been claimed as part of this trial, we will undertake a review of the program and consider providing similar opportunities in the future as more devices receive independent verification. "There is no one simple solution to reduce the risk of serious shark interactions with water users, but attacks are rare and WA has a multi-faceted approach to keep the community informed about real and potential shark hazards. "I also urge people to report shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600. That way you can help other water users and, by all means, also let your social media network know about the sighting, but call Water Police first so we can spread the message far and wide.' Minister's office - 6552 6100

Western Australia advertised at Chelsea FC home games Part of the deal secured for the 2018 Chelsea FC appearance at Perth Stadium Worldwide television audience of millions, more than 40,000 at the ground Perth and Western Australia are being advertised at Chelsea Football Club home ground matches in London this season. The LED signage display is part of the deal brokered by Tourism WA, in partnership with Perth Stadium operators VenuesLive, to bring the reigning Premier League champions to Perth Stadium next year to play Perth Glory. The timing of the home ground advertising is ideal to promote the Qantas non-stop London to Perth flights, beginning in March next year and on sale now. LED messaging at Stamford Bridge reads 'Western Australia just got closer, fly non-stop from London to Perth, westernaustralia.com'. A recent report in the Independent stated the Premier League is carried by 80 broadcasters in 212 territories worldwide, and an average game is watched by more than 12 million people. More than 40,000 people attend each Chelsea match at Stamford Bridge, the club's home ground in London. Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Paul Papalia "This home game signage is a great part of the deal done with Chelsea Football Club by Tourism WA. "The popularity and reach of the Premier League and Chelsea FC in particular is astounding. "The friendly match against Perth Glory, in July next year, will see Perth Stadium and our city at capacity. "15,000 people are expected from outside WA for the match, injecting $15 million into the economy. "Tourism provides jobs for Western Australians and the State will continue to support major events that attract people from interstate and overseas, to increase jobs growth." Minister's office - 6552 5600